7. Lullaby | by Leslie Marmon Silko | STORY | MCQ | Questions-Answers | Major English XII

 

STORY

7. Lullaby

by Leslie Marmon Silko

 

 

CHARACTERS

 

 

Ayah: The elderly protagonist of the story. She is a Native American woman who reflects on her past, memories of her children, and the impact of colonialism on her life.

 

Jimmie: Ayah's son who is presumed dead after a helicopter crash. His absence is a source of sorrow for Ayah.

 

Chato: Ayah's husband, who is mentioned in the story. He is a Native American man who plays a significant role in Ayah's life.

 

Danny:  Ayah's son, who is taken away by white doctors along with his sister Ella. Ayah reflects on the day they were separated from her.

 

Ella: Ayah's daughter, who is also taken away by white doctors along with Danny. Ayah remembers the events surrounding their separation.

 

 

 

 

 

SUMMARY

 

Leslie Marmon Silko (b. 1948) is a Native American writer known for her novels like Ceremony and The Almanac of the Dead. Raised in the Laguna Pueblo community of New Mexico, she draws on her cultural background in her works. In her story 'Lullaby,' Silko explores the clash between Native American and white cultures, highlighting the enduring impact of colonialism on Native Americans. The story ends with a poignant lullaby, symbolizing the persistence of memory and culture despite oppression.

 

Ayah, an elderly woman, reminisces about her past while sitting under a cottonwood tree in the snow. She recalls how she used to play with snow like her own children. Now, her life is filled with memories. Ayah gazes at the snowy landscape, finding solace in the familiar Navajo song carried by the wind. She sits by Cebolleta Creek, where cows graze in spring. Wrapping herself in an old Army blanket from her son Jimmie, she avoids dwelling on him. Instead, she reflects on her mother's weaving, vividly recalling the loom under a tamarack tree and the combs used to prepare wool. Her mother's vibrant yarns come to life on the loom.

 

Ayah recalls her mother's skill in dyeing yarn for blankets, crafted to repel rain like birds' feathers. She cherishes memories of warmth on cold nights in the hogan, wrapped in those blankets. As the snow swirls around her, Ayah reminisces about wearing elk hide moccasins before overshoes were available. She finds comfort in these recollections, no longer feeling the cold. Jimmie's blanket holds newfound warmth, evoking memories of his birth. He never returned, presumed dead in a helicopter crash. The military informed them, but Chato, fluent in English and Spanish, declined any return of Jimmie's remains. Ayah mourns, facing hardship without him.

 

Ayah mourns Jimmie, envisioning him working on the ranch. She recalls the day white doctors came to take Danny and Ella, gesturing and pressuring her to sign papers. Fearing for her children, Ayah grabs them and flees to the foothills, leaving the doctors behind. In the calm of the hills, Ayah finds solace under the blue sky. Danny plays with pebbles, while Ella drops dirt in the breeze. They watch a hawk circle above. As evening approaches, Ayah looks down at their worn shack, deciding to wait for her husband, keeping the children safe from the white men who pursued them.

 

Ayah regrets signing the papers that led to the loss of her children. When the doctors return with a BIA policeman, Chato informs her it's too late to change anything. She mourns the separation, feeling the pain grow with each reminder of their last day together. Ayah resents Chato for teaching her to sign her name, believing it made her vulnerable. She isolates herself on the hill, where she eventually creates a bed where the children used to sleep. Only years later, when Chato falls ill, does she embrace him again. She heads back to find him in the snow, reflecting on their strained relationship.

 

Ayah struggles through the deep snow to the bar, hoping to find Chato waiting for her. Inside, the hostile atmosphere is palpable. The patrons stare at her, wary of the old Navajo woman. Ayah examines every corner, searching for Chato. The bartender gestures for her to close the door, but she doesn't notice. Drying her snow-covered blanket by the stove, memories flood her mind. She recalls the first time her children were returned by white strangers, feeling a disconnect. They left after a few hours, unable to comprehend Ayah's way of life. The last visit was in June, and Ayah sensed they wouldn't return. She turned away without saying goodbye.

 

Ayah searches for Chato, determined to find him. She believes that with the blanket, they can take shelter in the old adobe barn near the arroyo. She hopes the money and wine are gone, signaling their return to their humble hogan with its dirt roof and rock walls. The years have been tough, the garden struggling due to a lack of rain. They rely on welfare provisions, making monthly trips to Cebolleta for their check. Ayah finds Chato walking slowly along the road, noticing his frailty and the scent of wood smoke and urine on him. He sometimes confuses her with his sister, who passed away long ago. Chato gazes at her, as if seeing her for the first time, before they continue their journey in the falling snow.

 

Ayah and Chato find shelter among giant boulders, escaping the passing storm. They share the blanket, wrapped together against the cold. As the clouds clear, Ayah marvels at the crystalline night sky, unobstructed by haze. Chato lies beside her, looking youthful in the moonlight. Ayah senses the freezing cold descending from the thin moon, knowing he'll be insulated by the wine-induced sleep. She tucks the blanket around him, reminiscing about caring for Ella and feeling a surge of love. She sings a familiar lullaby passed down through generations, a comforting and tender gesture towards her children.

 

 

 

 

 

 

A. Multiple Choice Questions

 

1. Etymologically, 'lullaby' means a.......................

a) love song   

b) sleep song  

c) parody        

d) war song

 

2. Chato is Ayah's.........................................

a) friend         

b) son             

c) brother       

d) husband

 

3. ...................................was the name of Ayah's son, who was killed in war.

a) Jimmy                   

b) Tammy                   

c) Roomy        

d) Sunny

 

4. In addition to his native language Chato spoke.....................language too English.

a) Spanish     

b) French       

c) German      

d) Hindi

 

5. Who were Danny and Ella?

a) Ayah's siblings                   

b) Ayah's children    

c) Ayah's friends        

d) Police officers

 

 

 

 

Extra MCQs

 

1. What is Leslie Marmon Silko known for?

   a) Painting

   b) Writing

   c) Sculpting

   d) Singing

 

2. Where was Leslie Marmon Silko raised?

   a) New York City

   b) Los Angeles

   c) Laguna Pueblo, New Mexico

   d) Chicago

 

3. In which story does Silko explore the clash between Native American and white cultures?

   a) Ceremony

   b) The Almanac of the Dead

   c) Lullaby

   d) Gardens in the Dunes

 

4. What does the lullaby at the end of the story symbolize?

   a) Joy and celebration

   b) The persistence of memory and culture

   c) Sadness and loss

   d) A farewell to the past

 

5. Where does Ayah sit while reminiscing about her past?

   a) Under a cottonwood tree

   b) In a bar

   c) Near Cebolleta Creek

   d) In an old adobe barn

 

6. What does Ayah wrap herself in for warmth?

   a) A military uniform

   b) A Navajo blanket

   c) A shawl made of elk hide

   d) A red shirt

 

7. How does Ayah describe the clouds in the sky?

   a) Dark and ominous

   b) Massive and full

   c) Wispy and scattered

   d) Absent and clear

 

8. What is Ayah's son's name?

   a) Danny

   b) Jimmie

   c) Chato

   d) Ella

 

9. What does Ayah recall about her mother's weaving?

   a) It took place under a cottonwood tree

   b) Her mother used a wooden loom

   c) The combs were made of metal

   d) The yarns were dyed green and blue

 

10. What did Ayah's mother use to dye the yarn for blankets?

    a) Bee weed petals

    b) Juniper berries

    c) Sage

    d) All of the above

 

11. Where does Ayah find shelter during the storm?

    a) In a cave

    b) Among giant boulders

    c) In a bar

    d) Under a cottonwood tree

 

12. What does Ayah notice about the sky after the storm?

    a) It is full of stars

    b) It is covered in clouds

    c) It is red from the setting sun

    d) It is hazy with mist

 

13. What does Ayah see descending from the thin moon?

    a) Rain

    b) Icy stillness

    c) Shooting stars

    d) Birds flying

 

14. How does Ayah feel about the cold?

    a) She enjoys it

    b) She doesn't feel it

    c) She finds it unbearable

    d) She is indifferent to it

 

15. What does Ayah do with the blanket to keep Chato warm?

    a) Wraps it around herself

    b) Tucks it around him

    c) Throws it in the air

    d) Sings a lullaby to it

 

16. Why does Ayah feel anger towards Chato?

    a) He taught her to sign her name

    b) He took her children away

    c) He abandoned her in the hills

    d) He drank all the wine

 

17. What is the significance of Ayah's white hair and wrinkled face?

    a) It indicates her age and wisdom

    b) It symbolizes her grief and loss

    c) It represents her connection to nature

    d) It suggests her strength and resilience

 

18. Why does Ayah go to the bar in Cebolleta?

    a) To find her children

    b) To meet with friends

    c) To get supplies

    d) To look for Chato

 

19. How does Ayah feel about the people in the bar?

    a) She is afraid of them

    b) She is comfortable around them

    c) She is indifferent to them

    d) She is angry with them

 

20. What does Ayah hope to find when she returns to the shack?

    a) Her children

    b) Food and supplies

    c) Chato waiting for her

    d) A warm fire

 

21. What does Chato's sister's passing have to do with Ayah and Chato?

    a) They were close friends with her

    b) Chato often confuses Ayah with her

    c) Ayah is actually Chato's sister

    d) Chato feels guilty about her death

 

22. What is Ayah's reaction when she finds Chato in the snow?

    a) She is relieved

    b) She is angry

    c) She is sad

    d) She is indifferent

 

23. How does Chato appear in the moonlight?

    a) Young and vibrant

    b) Old and frail

    c) Angry and agitated

    d) Frightened and disoriented

 

24. What does Ayah do to protect Chato from the cold?

    a) She builds a fire

    b) She wraps him in a blanket

    c) She sings a lullaby

    d) She brings him inside the bar

 

25. What is the central theme of 'Lullaby' by Leslie Marmon Silko?

    a) The enduring impact of colonialism

    b) The beauty of nature

    c) The power of memory

    d) The importance of family

 

 

 

 

 

B. Short Questions

 

1. How does the author describe the condition of the weather and the condition of the old woman at the beginning of the story?

 

At the beginning of the story, the author, Leslie Marmon Silko, vividly describes the wintry setting and the condition of the old woman, Ayah. The sun has set, casting the landscape into darkness, yet the snow in the wind emits its own eerie light, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. The snow falls in thick tufts, resembling freshly washed wool waiting to be spun by a weaver. This imagery evokes a sense of purity and transformation.

 

As for Ayah, she is portrayed as an elderly woman, her age reflected in her reminiscences and reflections on her past. She sits under a cottonwood tree, a symbol of endurance and wisdom in Native American culture. The rough bark of the tree presses against her back, emphasizing her connection to the natural world. Despite her age, Ayah reaches out to the snow, much like she did with her own children, demonstrating a lingering vitality within her.

 

Ayah's thoughts drift to her youth, remembering moments of joy and laughter with her children. However, now she is described as an old woman, her life dominated by memories. The language used to describe Ayah's physical state is evocative of her weathered condition. The portrayal of Ayah against the backdrop of the snowy landscape sets the stage for a narrative that will delve into themes of memory, loss, and the enduring spirit of Native American culture.

 

 

2. Narrate the scene that Ayah remembers with her mother and grandmother?

 

Ayah reminisces about a cherished memory with her mother and grandmother, a scene steeped in the artistry of traditional Navajo weaving. In her recollection, Ayah envisions herself as a little girl, entrusted with the task of preparing raw wool. The setting is a familiar one, under the shade of a tamarack tree where a tall wooden loom stands, ready to bring their creations to life.

 

Ayah's grandmother sits beside her, her hands skillfully manipulating a smooth cedar spindle, spinning strands of silvery yarn. As Ayah combs the freshly washed wool, she feels a deep sense of connection with the generations before her. The act of preparing the wool becomes a ritual, a passing down of knowledge and tradition.

 

The air is infused with the earthy scent of the wool, and the atmosphere is one of purposeful industry. Ayah's mother, too, is engrossed in the process, working the loom with brightly dyed yarns in shades of yellow, red, and gold. The colors reflect the vibrancy of their culture, each thread a testament to their heritage.

 

In this sacred space, surrounded by the tools of their craft and the natural beauty of their surroundings, Ayah learns not only the practical skills of weaving, but also absorbs the intangible essence of her cultural identity. The memory is a testament to the profound significance of their craft, a tradition that binds generations together in a continuum of artistry and heritage.

 

3. How did native people protect themselves from the snow in the past?

 

In the past, native people employed various ingenious methods to protect themselves from the harsh winter elements, particularly snow. One of the primary strategies was the construction of sturdy, insulated dwellings designed to withstand cold temperatures. For instance, the Navajo people, like Ayah in the story, built traditional hogans with thick walls made of logs and mud. These structures provided effective insulation against the cold and snow, offering a warm and secure shelter.

 

Additionally, native communities often utilized natural resources to create protective clothing and footwear. Animal hides and furs, such as those from deer or elk, were skillfully fashioned into clothing items like coats, moccasins, and leggings. These garments not only provided warmth but were also designed to repel moisture from the snow, keeping the wearer dry.

 

In regions with heavy snowfall, snow shelters were sometimes constructed. For example, the Inuit people built snow igloos, using blocks of compacted snow to create domed structures. These igloos offered excellent insulation and protection against the cold, allowing inhabitants to stay warm even in frigid conditions.

 

Furthermore, native people often relied on their knowledge of the land and natural resources to sustain themselves during the winter. They engaged in practices such as hunting, gathering, and storing food to ensure a steady supply of sustenance throughout the colder months.

 

By combining architectural ingenuity, resourceful clothing, and strategic use of natural resources, native communities devised effective methods to protect themselves from the challenges posed by winter, including heavy snowfall.

 

 

4. Why Ayah's son was named Jimmie?

 

Ayah's son was named Jimmie as a way of bridging the gap between his Navajo heritage and the English-speaking world he would be raised in. In the story "Lullaby" by Leslie Marmon Silko, Jimmie is given a name that honors both his Navajo roots and the English language, which would be a significant part of his identity growing up.

 

In Navajo culture, names often carry deep significance and can be influenced by various factors, including the circumstances of a child's birth or events occurring around that time. When Jimmie was born, it was on a summer morning, and this natural event inspired his name. In English, he was formally named Jimmie, a name that would allow him to navigate the predominantly English-speaking society he would grow up in.

 

By giving him a name that straddles both cultures, Ayah and her family likely hoped to prepare Jimmie for the challenges of living in a world where his Native American heritage coexists with English-speaking communities. This decision reflects the complex cultural dynamics that many Indigenous families face, as they seek to preserve their traditions while also equipping their children to thrive in a predominantly English-speaking society.

 

 

5. Where and how was Jimmie killed?

 

Jimmie was killed in a helicopter crash during his service in the military. The story "Lullaby" by Leslie Marmon Silko does not provide extensive details about the exact circumstances of the crash, but it is mentioned that the helicopter he was on caught fire and burned after it crashed. This tragic event occurred while Jimmie was serving in the military, which implies that he was likely stationed in an area where helicopters were being used, possibly in a combat or training capacity.

 

The story does not specify the location of the crash or the specific mission Jimmie was on at the time. However, it is clear that his untimely death had a profound impact on Ayah and her family. The military officer who informed them of Jimmie's death mentioned that they would try to recover his body, but due to the extent of the fire, it was unlikely they would be successful.

 

Jimmie's death serves as a pivotal and tragic event in the story, highlighting the sacrifices and losses experienced by Native American families, particularly those with members in the military. It also adds to the theme of the enduring impact of colonialism and the hardships faced by Ayah and her family.

 

 

6. Why are Ayah's children taken away from her by the doctors?

 

Ayah's children, Danny and Ella, are taken away from her by the doctors because they believe the children have contracted tuberculosis, a highly contagious and potentially deadly respiratory disease. The doctors are concerned about the spread of the disease and want to isolate and treat the children in a medical facility.

 

In the story "Lullaby" by Leslie Marmon Silko, the doctors are accompanied by a BIA (Bureau of Indian Affairs) policeman who assists them in their efforts to take the children. They approach Ayah and pressure her to sign papers, likely consenting to the children's removal for medical treatment. Ayah, who does not fully understand the language and customs of the white doctors, becomes frightened and anxious about the fate of her children.

 

Fearing for Danny and Ella's safety, Ayah takes matters into her own hands. She grabs the children and flees to the foothills, seeking refuge from the doctors and the policeman. Her actions are driven by a mother's instinct to protect her children, even if it means defying the authority of the doctors and the law.

 

This event in the story highlights the cultural and linguistic barriers faced by Ayah, as well as the complex dynamics between Native American communities and the outside authorities who often do not fully understand or respect their way of life.

 

 

7. What does Ayah, as a mother, feel while being separated from her children?

 

Ayah, as a mother, feels a profound and agonizing sense of loss and heartbreak when she is separated from her children. The experience is emotionally devastating for her, and she grapples with a mixture of grief, helplessness, and anger.

 

When Ayah sees her children being taken away by the doctors and the BIA policeman, she is overcome with fear and desperation. She understands on a deep maternal level that her children are being forcibly taken from her, and she realizes that she may not see them again. This realization intensifies her sense of panic and sorrow.

 

As Ayah flees to the hills with Danny and Ella, she clings to them, trying to provide them with comfort and protection. She holds Ella close to her and carries Danny, determined to keep them safe from the strangers who are trying to separate them. In this moment, Ayah's maternal instincts kick in, and she is willing to do whatever it takes to shield her children from harm.

 

Throughout the ordeal, Ayah's love for her children shines through. She feels a profound connection to them, and the thought of being separated from them is almost unbearable. This experience leaves a lasting scar on Ayah's heart, and it becomes a pivotal and tragic moment in her life.

 

 

8. What are Ayah's feelings when she meets her children after a long separation?

 

When Ayah meets her children after a long separation, she experiences a complex mix of emotions that range from joy and relief to sadness and a sense of disconnection.

 

Seeing her children again fills Ayah with a deep sense of longing and nostalgia. She is overjoyed to be reunited with them, and the sight of their familiar faces brings her a profound sense of comfort. The connection she feels with them is evident in the way she holds Ella close and interacts with Danny. She cherishes this moment, savoring the opportunity to be with them again.

 

However, Ayah also senses a subtle shift in their relationship. She notices that Danny struggles to communicate with her, speaking in a mix of English and Navajo. This linguistic barrier underscores the cultural divide that has grown between them during their separation. Ayah feels a pang of sadness and realizes that, in some ways, they have become strangers to each other.

 

Despite this sense of disconnection, Ayah is determined to make the most of their time together. She engages with them, smiling at Ella and speaking to Danny. She tries to bridge the gap that has formed between them, holding onto the hope that their bond can be rekindled.

 

Overall, Ayah's emotions upon reuniting with her children are bittersweet. While she revels in the joy of their presence, she is also acutely aware of the challenges they face in rebuilding their relationship after the long separation.

 

 

9. Who is the blond woman in the story and why does she feel uncomfortable at Ayah's hogan?

 

The blonde woman in the story is one of the white doctors who come to Ayah's hogan to take Danny and Ella. She feels uncomfortable at Ayah's hogan for several reasons.

 

Firstly, the hogan represents a stark contrast to the environment the blonde woman is likely accustomed to. It is a traditional Navajo dwelling, made of logs and mud, with a dirt floor. The simplicity and rustic nature of the hogan may be unfamiliar and perhaps even uncomfortable for someone not accustomed to this way of life.

 

Secondly, the interior of the hogan may have seemed foreign and potentially intimidating to the blonde woman. The presence of dried venison hanging from the ceiling, a practice common in Native American culture, could be perceived as unusual or even unsettling for someone from a different cultural background.

 

Additionally, the language barrier may have contributed to the blonde woman's discomfort. She likely struggled to communicate effectively with Ayah and her family, as they primarily spoke Navajo. This linguistic divide could have created a sense of unease or awkwardness for the blonde woman.

 

Overall, the blonde woman's discomfort at Ayah's hogan likely stems from a combination of cultural differences, unfamiliar surroundings, and challenges in communication, all of which contributed to her feeling out of place in that particular environment.

 

 

10. Why are the men at the bar afraid of Ayah?

 

The men at the bar are afraid of Ayah for several reasons, primarily stemming from cultural differences and prejudices.

 

Firstly, Ayah is a Native American woman, and the bar's patrons are predominantly white. In many parts of the United States, especially during the time period in which the story is set, there was a significant racial divide and prejudice against Native Americans. This racial tension could contribute to the fear and apprehension the white men feel towards Ayah.

 

Secondly, Ayah's appearance may be striking and unfamiliar to the men. She is described as an old Navajo woman, which could make her stand out in a predominantly white environment. Her traditional clothing, demeanor, and possibly her language could all contribute to the men's unease.

 

Additionally, Ayah's demeanor and actions in the bar may not align with the behavior the men expect to encounter. She enters the bar purposefully, and her determined search for Chato may come across as assertive or even confrontational to the men.

 

Overall, the fear of Ayah exhibited by the men at the bar likely arises from a combination of racial prejudice, cultural differences, and Ayah's assertive demeanor, which all contribute to a sense of unease or discomfort among the white patrons.

 

 

11. How does Chato spend his charity money?

 

Chato spends the charity money they receive from the government on wine. When the monthly pale blue check arrives in a government envelope, Chato cashes it at the bar. Unfortunately, instead of using the money for necessary expenses or provisions, Chato chooses to spend it on alcohol. This habit leads to a cycle of dependency and financial instability for Ayah and Chato.

 

Ayah's frustration with Chato's spending habits is evident in the story. She resents that the money, meant to provide for their basic needs, is squandered on alcohol. This behavior further strains their already difficult circumstances, especially considering the challenging environmental conditions they face, such as a lack of rain and struggling crops.

 

Chato's choice to prioritize alcohol over their basic needs showcases a form of self-destructive behavior, which ultimately exacerbates their hardships. It also adds to Ayah's feelings of isolation and frustration within their relationship.

 

Overall, Chato's misuse of the charity money reflects a destructive pattern that further contributes to the challenges faced by Ayah and Chato in the story.

 

 

 

 

C. Long Questions

 

1. What is the significance of the setting in the story?

 

The setting in "Lullaby" by Leslie Marmon Silko holds great significance as it plays a crucial role in shaping the themes and character dynamics within the story. The narrative unfolds in the arid, desolate landscape of the Laguna Pueblo community in New Mexico. This setting is not merely a backdrop, but an integral part of the story's atmosphere and the characters' experiences.

 

Firstly, the harsh desert environment reflects the difficult life that Ayah and Chato lead. The barren land, struggling crops, and scarcity of resources symbolize the challenges they face in their daily lives. The arid setting serves as a metaphor for the emotional and cultural drought experienced by Native Americans as they grapple with the legacy of colonialism and oppression.

 

The cottonwood tree and Cebolleta Creek also hold special significance. The tree provides Ayah with a sense of comfort and familiarity, serving as a place of refuge where she can reminisce and find solace. The creek, while dry in the summer, represents the potential for renewal and sustenance in a land marked by scarcity. It is a reminder of the cycles of nature and the resilience required to survive in such an environment.

 

Furthermore, the snowstorm that envelopes the landscape adds depth to the story's themes. The snow becomes a powerful symbol of memory and cultural preservation. Ayah's recollections are triggered by the snow, and it serves as a medium through which she connects with her past and her ancestors. The snow also highlights the contrast between the purity of Ayah's memories and the harsh reality of her present circumstances.

 

Overall, the setting of "Lullaby" is not merely a backdrop, but a dynamic force that influences the characters' experiences and shapes the story's themes. The arid desert landscape, the cottonwood tree, Cebolleta Creek, and the snowstorm all contribute to the rich symbolism and emotional resonance of the narrative.

 

 

2. "White man's talk" was a phrase that remained in circulation among Indian communities of the Americas after the European's arrival in the continent. What role does this phrase play in this story?

 

In "Lullaby" by Leslie Marmon Silko, the phrase "white man's talk" holds significant thematic importance. It is a recurring motif that reflects the cultural clash between Native American and white settler communities, as well as the enduring impact of colonialism on Native American lives.

 

The phrase "white man's talk" encapsulates the imposition of European language and culture on indigenous communities. It represents the dominance of English and other European languages over the native languages of the Navajo people. This linguistic shift is symbolic of the broader cultural assimilation and erasure that Native American communities experienced under colonial rule.

 

Moreover, "white man's talk" also serves as a metaphor for the imposition of Western values, beliefs, and systems on indigenous ways of life. The intrusion of white culture disrupts the traditional practices and knowledge systems of Ayah's community. It creates a sense of displacement and alienation, as they are forced to adapt to foreign norms.

 

In the story, Ayah's difficulty with English, coupled with her husband Chato's fluency, highlights the divide between generations and the struggle to navigate the complexities of living in a world dominated by "white man's talk." Ayah's reluctance to fully embrace the language reflects a resistance to the cultural erasure it represents.

 

Furthermore, the phrase also conveys a sense of mistrust and skepticism towards the intentions and actions of white individuals, especially those in positions of authority. This sentiment is evident when Ayah recalls the visit from white doctors who pressure her to sign papers. Her apprehension and fear stem from a long history of exploitation and mistreatment at the hands of white settlers and authorities.

 

Overall, "white man's talk" in "Lullaby" serves as a potent symbol of the cultural and linguistic imperialism that Native American communities endured during the colonial era. It encapsulates the ongoing struggle for cultural preservation and the resilience of indigenous identity in the face of systemic oppression.

 

 

3. How does Silko portray class differences in the story?

 

In "Lullaby" by Leslie Marmon Silko, class differences are subtly portrayed through various elements of the narrative. The story highlights the socio-economic disparities between the Native American characters, like Ayah and Chato, and the white settlers or authorities they interact with.

 

Firstly, Ayah's family's living conditions in the boxcar shack on the rancher's land signify their economic struggles. The description of the shack as a "roughly built cabin" with a rusted and crooked stove pipe contrasts sharply with the more comfortable and well-maintained dwellings of the white rancher and his family. This discrepancy in living conditions emphasizes the economic disparity between the two groups.

 

Chato's employment as a ranch hand further underscores the class divide. Despite his loyalty and years of hard work, the white rancher dismisses him, highlighting the unequal power dynamics between the landowner and the laborer. This event ultimately leads to Chato's illness and further financial strain on Ayah's family.

 

Additionally, the reliance on government assistance, as seen in the monthly check that comes in a government envelope, points to their economic dependency. This contrasts with the white community's presumably more stable economic situation, as they do not appear to rely on such assistance.

 

The class differences also manifest in the interactions between Ayah and the white doctors who come to take her children. The doctors' authority and assertiveness reflect their position of privilege and power. They pressure Ayah to sign papers, further illustrating the imbalance of power between the two groups.

 

Overall, Silko portrays class differences through the stark contrast in living conditions, economic stability, and power dynamics between the Native American characters and the white settlers or authorities. These elements serve to underscore the systemic inequalities faced by Ayah and Chato's family as a result of their marginalized socio-economic status.

 

 

4. Silko's storytelling style is different from other short story writers. Comment on her storytelling style.

 

Leslie Marmon Silko's storytelling style in "Lullaby" is distinct and notable for several reasons. Her narrative approach incorporates traditional Native American storytelling techniques while also integrating modern literary elements. Here are some key aspects of Silko's storytelling style:

 

Oral Tradition Influence: Silko draws on the oral storytelling traditions of Native American cultures. Her prose often carries a rhythmic quality, reminiscent of the way stories are passed down orally. This rhythmic flow aids in immersing the reader in the cultural and emotional landscape of the characters.

 

Cultural Specificity: Silko infuses her writing with specific cultural references and practices of the Laguna Pueblo community, where she herself hails from. These details provide authenticity and depth to the narrative, allowing readers to gain insight into the customs and beliefs of the characters.

 

Intertwining of Past and Present: Silko seamlessly weaves together past memories and present experiences. This interplay between different temporal planes creates a layered narrative structure, allowing the reader to understand the characters' histories and the impact on their current lives.

 

Symbolism and Metaphor: Silko employs rich symbolism and metaphor throughout the story. For example, the image of the cottonwood tree represents endurance and the cyclical nature of life. The old Army blanket becomes a symbol of comfort and connection to her son Jimmie.

 

Nature as a Character: Nature plays a significant role in Silko's storytelling. The descriptions of the natural landscape serve as a backdrop for the characters' experiences and emotions. The weather and surroundings mirror the characters' inner states, creating a sense of unity between the human and natural worlds.

 

Stream-of-Consciousness: Silko employs a stream-of-consciousness narrative technique at times. This allows readers to enter Ayah's inner thoughts and emotions, providing insight into her perspective and experiences.

 

Sparse Dialogue: The story is characterized by minimal dialogue. Instead, Silko often conveys communication through actions, memories, and internal reflections. This allows for a deeper exploration of the characters' inner lives.

 

Cultural Dissonance: Silko addresses the clash between Native American and white cultures. This theme is woven into the narrative through Ayah's memories, interactions with white authorities, and reflections on her children's experiences.

 

Overall, Leslie Marmon Silko's storytelling style is characterized by its immersive, culturally specific, and emotionally resonant narrative techniques. Through her unique approach, Silko invites readers into the complex world of her characters, while also shedding light on broader cultural and societal themes.

 

 

5. What is the significance of the lullaby song that Ayah sings to her husband at the end of the story?

 

The lullaby song that Ayah sings to her husband at the end of the story holds significant cultural and emotional resonance. Here are several aspects of its significance:

 

Cultural Continuity: The lullaby song represents a cultural continuum. By singing this traditional Navajo lullaby, Ayah is passing down a piece of her cultural heritage to her husband. This act serves as a form of cultural preservation and a reminder of their shared roots.

 

Symbol of Comfort: The lullaby is a source of comfort for Ayah and her husband. In the face of their struggles and hardships, the song provides solace and a sense of connection to something larger than themselves. It offers a moment of respite from their challenges.

 

Expression of Love: The act of singing a lullaby is a deeply intimate gesture, often associated with parental love and care. In this context, Ayah's singing conveys her affection and concern for her husband. It is a way for her to express her emotions, particularly in a relationship that has experienced strain.

 

Connection to Children: The lullaby serves as a bridge to Ayah's memories of her children. Through the act of singing, she brings her absent children closer in spirit, evoking the nurturing bond between a mother and her offspring. It allows her to feel their presence in a symbolic way.

 

Resistance to Oppression: In a broader context, the lullaby can be seen as an act of resistance against the oppressive forces that have impacted Ayah and her family. It is a means of asserting her cultural identity and maintaining a sense of agency in the face of adversity.

 

Healing and Reconciliation: The lullaby holds the potential for healing and reconciliation. Through this shared moment, Ayah and her husband may find a sense of unity and mutual understanding. It can be a step towards mending their relationship and finding solace together.

 

Narrative Closure: The lullaby song serves as a poignant conclusion to the story. It encapsulates the themes of memory, cultural resilience, and the enduring power of love. It leaves the reader with a sense of the emotional depth and complexity of Ayah's experiences.

 

Overall, the lullaby song in the story serves as a powerful symbol of cultural continuity, love, and resistance, providing a profound and resonant conclusion to Ayah's narrative.

 

 

6. Silko has characterized Chato and Ayah quite differently. Don't you think she seems biased towards her male character? Give reasons.

 

While Silko presents both Chato and Ayah as distinct characters in the story, it's important to recognize that the narrative may provide more insight into Ayah's perspective due to its first-person point of view. This narrative choice may give the impression of a stronger focus on Ayah's experiences and emotions. However, it does not necessarily imply bias towards Chato. Here are a few considerations:

 

Narrative Perspective: The story is narrated from Ayah's point of view. This means that the reader gains direct access to Ayah's thoughts, feelings, and memories. It allows for a deeper exploration of Ayah's character and experiences. As a result, the reader may perceive a greater emphasis on Ayah's perspective, but it doesn't necessarily imply bias against Chato.

 

Exploration of Maternal Love: The narrative delves deeply into Ayah's experiences as a mother, particularly in the context of her memories of her children. This focus on Ayah's maternal love and her emotional responses to the separation from her children may naturally lead to a more detailed portrayal of her character.

 

Impact of Loss and Grief: Ayah's character is shaped significantly by the loss of her children and the grief she experiences. This emotional core of the story naturally places Ayah at the forefront of the narrative. The portrayal of Chato, while present and significant, may be secondary to Ayah's internal journey.

 

Cultural and Gender Dynamics: The story also explores the impact of cultural and gender dynamics on Ayah's life. Her experiences as a Native American woman, particularly in the face of colonialism and loss, form a central theme. This focus on Ayah's experiences doesn't necessarily diminish Chato's importance but reflects the narrative's thematic priorities.

 

In conclusion, while the narrative provides a detailed and emotive portrayal of Ayah's character, it does not necessarily imply bias against Chato. Instead, it reflects Silko's storytelling choices and the thematic emphasis on Ayah's experiences as a mother and a Native American woman facing cultural challenges and loss.

 

 

 

 

Best of Luck